Immigration Law at Maldives
Here's an overview of immigration law in the Maldives, covering the various visa types, permits, and regulations for foreign nationals:
Immigration Law in the Maldives: Overview
The Maldives' immigration laws are designed to regulate the entry, stay, employment, and exit of foreign nationals. The Maldives Immigration Service, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, is responsible for overseeing the enforcement of these laws. The Maldives, as a popular tourist destination, has a specific set of rules for tourists, workers, students, and long-term residents.
📜 Key Immigration Laws & Regulations
Immigration Act (Law No. 2/2007) – This is the primary legislation governing immigration in the Maldives. It outlines the rules for the entry, stay, exit, and deportation of foreign nationals.
Employment Act (Law No. 2/2008) – This law regulates employment in the Maldives and includes provisions for the employment of foreign nationals.
Tourism Act – Regulates the tourism industry, including the entry of tourists and the operation of resorts and guesthouses in the Maldives.
Regulations by Maldives Immigration – The Maldives Immigration Service issues specific rules and guidelines concerning visas, work permits, and residency.
🛂 Types of Visas & Permits
Tourist Visa
Visa on Arrival: The Maldives offers visa-free entry to nationals of most countries for up to 30 days for tourism purposes.
This visa can be extended for another 60 days (maximum 90 days) if needed. The extension is granted through the Maldives Immigration Department.
The entry is typically granted upon arrival at any international airport in the Maldives. Tourists must have a valid passport, a return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for their stay.
Business Visa
Foreign nationals coming to the Maldives for business purposes (such as meetings, conferences, or establishing a business) can apply for a Business Visa.
The business visa is valid for a short period, typically up to 90 days. If staying longer, business visa holders must apply for an extension or switch to another type of visa.
Employment Visa
Foreign nationals wishing to work in the Maldives must obtain an Employment Visa.
An Employment Permit is required, which is typically issued to foreign workers sponsored by an employer in the Maldives.
Work visas are generally granted to skilled professionals, especially those in hospitality, construction, or health services.
The employer must submit a request to the Ministry of Economic Development and Maldives Immigration to obtain the work permit for the employee.
Foreign Worker Permits (temporary work permits) are also issued for unskilled or semi-skilled labor.
Student Visa
Foreign students wishing to study in the Maldives must apply for a Student Visa.
This visa is typically tied to enrollment at a recognized educational institution in the Maldives.
It is usually granted for the duration of the study program and can be extended while the student is pursuing studies.
Long-Term Stay / Residency Visa
Foreign nationals who wish to stay in the Maldives for a longer period may apply for a residency permit under certain conditions, such as through investment or family ties.
For example, retirees and those with substantial investments in the Maldives may be eligible for special residency programs.
Transit Visa
A Transit Visa is issued for those passing through the Maldives en route to another destination. This type of visa is valid for a short duration, typically up to 24 hours.
👷♂️ Work Permits
Foreign nationals wishing to work in the Maldives need to apply for an Employment Permit, which is generally sponsored by a Maldivian employer.
The employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a local worker.
Specialized skills in tourism, hospitality, engineering, and health services are in high demand in the Maldives, and foreign nationals with expertise in these areas are often granted work permits.
The employer must also ensure that workers are legally employed, with proper housing and working conditions, in accordance with Maldives labor laws.
🧑🤝🧑 Family Reunification
Foreign nationals with a valid work or residence permit in the Maldives may be eligible to bring their spouse and children (under the age of 18) to live with them in the country.
The primary visa holder must submit a request to Maldives Immigration to obtain dependent visas for their family members.
🛑 Undocumented Immigrants
Undocumented immigrants or those who overstay their visas face penalties, including fines, detention, and deportation.
The Maldives is strict about immigration violations, especially overstaying visas, and foreigners may face a ban on re-entry to the country for a period of time.
🕊️ Asylum & Refugees
The Maldives is not a significant destination for refugees, and it does not have a formal refugee system.
There are no clear asylum procedures available for foreign nationals seeking refuge in the Maldives.
The Maldives is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, and asylum seekers are generally referred to international agencies such as the UNHCR for assistance.
🇲🇻 Path to Citizenship
By Birth: A person born in the Maldives to Maldivian parents can acquire Maldivian citizenship.
By Naturalization: Foreign nationals can apply for naturalization after residing in the Maldives for a long period (typically 10 years), though the process is complex and rarely granted.
Applicants must demonstrate good conduct, proficiency in the local language, and contribute to the country’s economy.
By Marriage: Foreign nationals married to Maldivian citizens may be eligible to apply for citizenship after a certain period of residency, but the process is subject to approval by the government.
✈️ Visa Extensions & Overstays
Visitors who wish to stay in the Maldives beyond their tourist visa (30 days) can apply for an extension for an additional 60 days.
Overstaying a visa without proper extensions can result in fines, detention, and deportation.
If a foreigner overstays their visa, they may be prohibited from re-entering the Maldives for a certain period.
🌍 Visa Exemption & Regional Agreements
Visa-free entry for nationals of several countries (e.g., United States, European Union, Canada, India, etc.) for up to 30 days.
ASEAN nationals may also enjoy visa-free entry for short stays.
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